By Stephen Weir 

Two prominent Mas Bands, Fantazia and Lavway will join forces this Sunday for a unique Children’s Band Launch in Scarborough. The event, titled “First Eva Collaboration,” will take place at 280 Consumer Road, Unit 418, in North York on June 2nd. This free event is a groundbreaking collaboration as both bands prepare for the upcoming Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

The event will feature a fashion show where young models from Fantazia and Lavway will showcase the colourful costumes designed for the annual Junior Carnival Parade. These costumes will be on full display during the Kiddies Parade on July 20th at the Malvern Community Centre.

“This is the first time we have collaborated with anyone else,” said Michelle Brazier of Fantazia. “Our mas camps are in the same relative area of the city, so we decided to collaborate rather than host separate competing events.”

The day’s festivities, running from 3 PM to 5 PM, will include food, games, and a costume stage show, providing a fun-filled experience for all attendees.

Lavway Mas, a non-profit organization in Toronto, is dedicated to promoting and preserving Caribbean carnival culture. This year, Lavway’s band theme is “A Journey Through Far East Asia,” promising an array of exotic and culturally inspired outfits.

Fantazia, under the direction of Will Morton, will present costumes named White Diamonds, Orange Sapphire, and Blue Aura. These designs align with Fantazia’s 2024 theme of “Uncut Gemz,” highlighting the creativity and vibrancy expected in both adult and children’s costumes.

This collaborative event marks a significant milestone in Toronto’s Caribbean carnival scene, fostering unity and cultural celebration among the community’s youth.